The Commencement celebration was held Saturday, June 17, 2017 at 9am at Mountain Arena (Raider Stadium). Processional began at 8:45am and the ceremony will begin at 9am. Commencement will be carried live on RVTV and is now archived for later viewing.

We encourage graduates, family, and guests to visit the Mountain Arena (Raider Stadium) beforehand to become familiarized with the area.

Guests do NOT need tickets, but graduates should inform their guests that parking and seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Plan ahead and arrive early!

Weather conditions for Commencement are usually significantly warm by afternoon. While graduates and guests will often be exposed to direct sun for the duration of the ceremony, Southern Oregon weather can be unpredictable. Commencement is held rain or shine, so please keep tabs on the local forecast and come prepared for inclement weather!

It is recommended that students and guests dress in layers to accommodate for weather conditions. In order to participate in the ceremony, students are required to wear the appropriate cap and gown. In addition, for personal safety and to avoid damage of the field, heels are not permitted on the athletic field so all students who wish to participate in the ceremony are required to wear safe and comfortable shoes.

All graduating students, and as many guests as possible, will be provided with a complimentary water bottle filled with chilled water. Drinking water will be available before and during the Commencement ceremony at a number of water stations.

We are expecting a large number of graduates and guests, so please plan accordingly. Graduates and guests are advised to arrive early! Gates open at 7am.

On Commencement day, free parking is available in all parking lots on the SOU campus. There will be free shuttle service from the Mountain Avenue parking lot to Mountain Arena (Raider Stadium) (see map) approximately every 15 minutes.

As we approach Commencement, this site will be continually updated. Please be sure to check back often!

Updates and information are sent to students through email during spring term. Please remember to check it frequently! See you at Commencement!